The 8 Friendliest Little Towns In California's Sierra Nevada

When tourists plan their trips to California, they often overlook the Sierra Nevada Mountains, sticking to destinations along the coast instead. And honestly, it’s a shame! Not only are these mountains some of the most beautiful in the country, but they are also home to some seriously welcoming communities. Between its music festivals, rodeos, historical museums, and wineries, this region has many inviting characteristics, and the following eight towns are some of the best examples.

Mammoth Lakes

With 300 days of annual sunshine, it is no wonder that the people in Mammoth Lakes often find themselves in a good mood. There are plenty of natural spots nearby that are sure to lift your spirits, including the Mammoth Lakes Basin, which offers excellent hiking, biking, and picnicking opportunities. The town also has a lively art scene, featuring groups like the Mammoth Lakes Repertory Theatre, which will present Clybourne Park from November 14 to 23. Mammoth Lake also becomes notably lively during the annual Mammoth Jazzfest, a two-night music festival that combines lovely jazz with wine samples.

Sonora

Founded in the mid-19th century by Mexican miners, Sonora is a historic gold-rush era town with a close-knit community that takes pride in sharing its past. Much of this history is preserved at the Tuolumne County Museum, which contains exhibits regarding the area’s Native Americans, gold rush, railroads, and more. The fall season is the perfect time to visit the nearby Indigeny Reserve, a 160-acre preserve and orchard that produces hand-crafted hard cider, apple brandy, and citrus-infused liquor. Next month, travelers can add the Sonora Christmas Parade to their calendar, which will take place on November 28th and will feature floats, antique cars, marching bands, and other festive parade features.

Nevada City

Situated near the edge of the Tahoe National Forest, Nevada City has a thriving art scene, promoting artists through its many venues and festivals. The town’s art is preserved through long-running establishments such as the Nevada Theatre, the oldest continuously operated theater facility on the West Coast. The Crazy Horse Saloon & Grill is another great place to catch a show, a historic bar that hosts live music events throughout the week. The community is also known for events like the Nevada City Film Festival, an annual summer film festival that screens a variety of independent and international films, accompanied by workshops, talks, happy hours, and other social events.

Three Rivers

While many people associate Three Rivers with its proximity to Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park, it is also home to a friendly art and culinary community. Once a month, the art community hosts the First Saturday in Three Rivers event, in which local artists, dancers, and musicians host special activities for the public. Even if you aren’t able to visit town on the first Saturday of the month, you can still visit one of the local galleries all month long, such as Kaweah Arts, which exhibits art from over 50 local artisans. Travelers seeking a hospitable restaurant to dine at will love The Gateway Restaurant, a top-rated restaurant famous for its continental cuisine and riverside views.

Auburn

Auburn is a historic mining town that has developed a rich wine, music, and wellness scene. Each summer, the town famously hosts the Dry Diggings Music Festival, a camping and music festival that is open to attendees of all ages. Travelers have several wineries in the area to visit as well, such as Vina Castellano Winery, an eight-acre vineyard in the Sierra foothills that sits on a 40-year-old family ranch. While in town, consider relaxing at one of the many welcoming spas. Botanical Beauty is a highly rated option, providing several facial services.

Bishop

Bishop is a Western-influenced town located in the eastern Sierras, offering a variety of ways to explore its nature. Travelers looking to explore the mountains with a friendly outfitter can book an excursion with Rainbow Pack Outfitters, a family business that has been operating in the community since 1924. Surrounded by nature, you’ll also find the Bishop Creek Lodge, a family-owned resort that operates seasonally from the end of April through the end of October. The town’s music roots are put on display during the annual Millpond Music Festival, a beloved event that produces world-class music on a festival ground surrounded by the mountains.

Oakhurst

Oakhurst holds several cultural events and festivals throughout the year that visitors should have on their radar. Around April, the Oakhurst Woodcarvers Rendezvous takes place, an annual gathering of woodcarvers from around the United States. Activities during the rendezvous include workshops, classes, exhibitions, and demonstrations. The Coarsegold Rodeo follows in May, offering bronc riding, live music, local vendors, and other social activities. Year-round, stop by one of the area’s wineries for a glass of wine and a bite to eat. Idle Hour Winery & Kitchen is a great option, serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and an award-winning wine menu. The wine bar is located along the Fresno River, making for some beautiful views as well!

Mariposa

Mariposa’s gold-rush history has been wonderfully preserved through the town’s cherished museums. Travelers can start their town tour by visiting the Mariposa Museum & History Center, which was founded in 1957 and exhibits its history through Native American, Spanish settlement, gold rush, Yosemite, and county history exhibits. The California State Mining and Mineral Museum is another highlight, which allows you to explore an array of minerals from both the state and from around the world. On a separate note, if you love butterflies, consider visiting Mariposa in May during the annual Mariposa Butterfly Festival. A few activities during this event include butterfly releases, a parade, live music, local vendors, and more.

Towns With Plenty of Community Spirit

If you have some free time and are craving a bit of community spirit, a trip to one of these eight towns is sure to do the trick. Many of them have festivals going on throughout the year, complemented by some of the region’s most hospitable restaurants, orchards, and museums. If you prefer to spend your weekend in nature, you almost certainly won’t be far from a hiking or biking trail, either. So pick the town that sticks out to you and get ready to immerse yourself in its welcoming atmosphere!